Hacker News Reader

You haven't been around the tech scene long have you? Gates has a well-known reputation within MS as ruthless, snarky, and yes an asshole at times. See the numerous references to his (famous if only anecdotal) refrains when unsatisfied with someone else's work.

Also read Paul Allen's book -- specifically the part where Gates tried to screw Paul by diluting his stock.

Here is Spolsky's take on what Bill Gates was like to work for:

http://www.joelonsoftware.com/items/2006/06/16.html

Certainly feared to some extent.

Bill Gates does not come across as an asshole at all in that article.

Throughout the netscape vs IE era, Gates was considered a ruthless businessman internationally. The situation is 10 years old and fading, but asshole was definitely a predominant take on Gates for a long time